tease; fiddle with; instigate
Meanings
3 senses · 9 examplesverb
to tease; to make fun of; to toy with
Used when someone is treating others or animals in a playful, often slightly annoying way.
Don't tease others casually.
He likes to toy with the neighbor's kitten.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
Don't tease the new colleague; he's still an intern.
verb
to arrange; to adjust; to fiddle with; to tinker with
Refers to manipulating objects, often with one's hands, to get them in order or to see how they work.
She's tending to the flowers and plants in the garden.
He was fiddling with the camera in his hands, trying to find the best angle.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
Tinkering with musical instruments requires great patience.
verb
to instigate; to stir up; to sow discord
derogatorySpecifically used in the context of stirring up disputes or encouraging conflict between people. Often carries a negative connotation.
He's stirring up trouble behind people's backs, damaging relationships among colleagues.
Don't be instigated by others into doing something you'll regret.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
He likes to sow discord in other people's relationships just to watch the drama.